This glass/concrete pedestrian bridge is a project by Ghent University on the subject of ‘Glass to Concrete’ (G2C). The exhibit explores the potential of adhesively bonding glass to concrete as an alternative to conventional mechanical connections. This innovative prototype demonstrates several applications of glass-to-concrete bonding
The three-metre span of the bridge is achieved through a hybrid glass/concrete panel featuring integrated T-shaped beams. The core of the panel consists of a concrete slab with strategically placed openings to reduce weight and increase transparency. Glass plates are adhesively bonded to both the top and bottom surfaces, enhancing the element's overall stiffness. The T-shaped beams have a concrete flange that extends into the hybrid panel. Within this flange, a notch accommodates a vertical glass web, securely bonded to complete the beam’s structure. The glass web is shaped to follow the moment line of the beam, optimising load distribution.
Glass balustrades are bonded to the edges of the hybrid panel. The slender stairs, crafted from ultra-high-performance concrete (UHPC), are attached to the glass side panels, which serve as both balustrades and structural supports. These glass panels bear the staircase load, creating a floating appearance with minimal dependence on the thin glass plate beneath.
